Planning your wedding can feel overwhelming with all the decisions you need to make. But when it comes to booking your makeup artist, timing is everything! In this blog post, I’ll cover when to book your wedding makeup artist to make sure you get the perfect person for your big day. Whether you’re getting married in peak wedding season or during a quieter time, securing your makeup artist early can help make the rest of your planning much easier.

Why Should You Book Early?

It might surprise you how quickly makeup artists get booked, especially in Northern Virginia, where wedding dates can fill up fast. Popular weekends in spring and fall often sell out over a year in advance. This means that the earlier you book, the better your chances of getting your first-choice artist.

So, when should you book your wedding makeup artist?

Ideally, you’ll want to reserve your spot 9-12 months before your wedding. This is especially important if your wedding falls on a popular date or during peak wedding season.

Benefits of Early Booking

Booking your makeup artist early isn’t just about securing the date. Here are a few key benefits:

1. Stress-Free Planning

Once you’ve locked in your artist, you can check one big task off your list. You’ll have more time to focus on other aspects of your wedding without worrying about whether your favorite artist will be available.

2. Trial Time

By booking early, you can schedule a makeup trial well in advance. This gives you and your artist time to work together, refine your look, and make adjustments if needed. At Makeup by Kiley Smith, I always recommend booking a trial 3-6 months before the wedding to ensure you’re happy with the final look.

3. Tailored Look

When you book early, your artist has time to get to know you and your style preferences. At Makeup by Kiley Smith, I believe in customizing each look to fit the bride’s preferences. Whether you’re going for a classic, elegant look or something more natural, early booking allows us to perfect your vision.

What to Consider When Booking a Makeup Artist

When thinking about when to book your wedding makeup artist, there are several factors to consider. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Experience: Does the artist have experience with bridal makeup? A seasoned artist will know how to create a look that lasts all day and looks great in photos.

• Style: Make sure their style matches the look you want. For example, I specialize in natural, radiant makeup that enhances your features while giving you a timeless glow.

• Reviews: Check out testimonials and reviews from past brides. You’ll want to feel confident that your makeup artist is reliable and delivers high-quality work.

Securing Your Date with Makeup by Kiley Smith

Once you’ve decided on your makeup artist, the next step is to secure your date. I personally encourage brides to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. This is extremely important at Makeup by Kiley Smith, since I only take one wedding per date.

What Happens if You Book Too Late?

If you wait too long to book, your favorite artist might already be taken, especially for peak wedding dates. This could leave you scrambling to find someone else. Not only is it stressful, but you might end up working with an artist who doesn’t fit your style or vision.

To avoid this, try to follow the 9-12 month rule. If you’re planning a wedding on a less popular date, you might be able to book later, but it’s always better to secure your artist early.

Flexibility and Communication Are Key

If your wedding date isn’t locked in yet, but you have an idea of when it will be, reach out to your preferred makeup artist to discuss their availability. Even without a confirmed date, this can help you get on their radar. Communication is key!

At Makeup by Kiley Smith, I work closely with my brides to ensure flexibility where possible. If any changes occur with your date or timeline, early communication allows us to make adjustments and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Conclusion

Knowing when to book your wedding makeup artist is crucial for a smooth planning process. Booking 9-12 months in advance will give you peace of mind and ensure you get the perfect artist for your big day. With Makeup by Kiley Smith, I prioritize your experience, ensuring that you look and feel your best. Don’t wait—reach out and secure your date today to guarantee your flawless, radiant bridal look!